Information Technology

Technology Specifications for Student Computers

Technology at Union University

Technology Overview: Union University provides each student with filtered Internet access,
an e-mail account (an official means of university communication), online access to mid-term and final grades, access to research databases and more. These resources can be accessed on or
off campus. Learn more.

Computer Labs: The main student labs with approximately fifty Windows workstations
are located in the Penick Academic Complex (PAC), near the Library on the
Jackson campus. Three labs are available at the Germantown campus. These
computers have all of the necessary software required for general academic
use, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.). There is also a laser printer available
for academic needs. The Jackson student Help Desk in the lab area is
staffed during posted lab hours. Learn more about lab hours and locations. For password problems, how-to questions, lab hours, etc., call
the Help Desk at 731-661-HELP (4357).

Wireless: Wireless
network/internet access is available in all buildings. Please note: personally-owned wireless access
points are not allowed on the University network. You can print to designated university PawPrint printers from your own laptop.

Residence complexes: To use the network port in each bedroom, you need an Ethernet network
interface card (NIC) installed in your computer. If your computer does not already have a
NIC installed then we can help with the installation if you provide the
card and an Ethernet cable. NICs
and Ethernet cables are available at most electronics stores. We provide network-related support to
students for free, assisting with network connection and with
troubleshooting problems related to network connectivity. Call 731-661-HELP for assistance. If you need general technical support for your personally-owned computer, call 731-661-5577.

If you are purchasing a new
computer to bring to Union, here are a few things to consider:

Desktop vs. Laptop: When purchasing a computer, consider how you plan to use the computer. If you want a fast computer to play games
then you will probably want a desktop. Desktops tend to be cheaper and offer more possibilities for upgrading
hardware. However, if you want a
portable computer that does not take much desk space in your dorm room then
consider a laptop. Most desktops and
laptops currently available will be more than adequate for web access, e-mail,
and word processing. If you are
purchasing a new computer, consider the warranty options that the manufacturer
may offer. They will often cover
hardware-related problems, but you may have to pay extra to extend the warranty
period and/or coverage. You may also
want to check with the hardware and software vendors to see it they offer
academic pricing for students.

Following is a list of minimum specifications that we
recommend for students purchasing a new computer:

Processor: Intel i5 – 2.5 GHz or faster

Operating System: For Windows, Vista Home Premium, Version 7 Home Premium or Version 8; For Mac,
OS X 10.6 or later